Why is the clutch pedal depressed at stoplights?

Why is the clutch pedal depressed at stoplights?

Keeping the clutch pedal depressed at stoplights leads to premature wear of the release bearing (also called the throwout beraing). It could also have contributed to your failed master cylinder.

What happens when you put the clutch in at a light?

That sounds like a poor quality clutch master cylinder. Sitting with the clutch in at a light should not hurt the clutch master cylinder, but it does accelerate the wear on the throwout bearing.

When do you know you have a problem with your clutch?

If you hear a high-pitched squeaking as you press the pedal then you know that you have a problem with your clutch. This sort of noise is usually associated with problems with the clutch release or throw-out bearings.

Why does my Clutch make noise when I release the clutch?

In some cases, the throw out bearing will make noises as you release the clutch. This is commonly caused by the center bearing grinding on the flywheel as it’s moving towards the transmission. If you notice this sound, have a professional mechanic inspect or replace the throw out bearing.

Keeping the clutch pedal depressed at stoplights leads to premature wear of the release bearing (also called the throwout beraing). It could also have contributed to your failed master cylinder.

Is it bad form to have the clutch down at a red light?

It’s also bad form for driving, as in the case you’re at a red light with first gear selected and the clutch depressed (and likely other foot on the brake, and handbrake disengaged), if you are distracted or hit by another car, and move your feet, your car will leap forward increasing the damage done.

What happens to the flywheel when the clutch is depressed?

With the clutch depressed you are putting pressure on the “throw out” bearing and the yoke that separates the clutch plate from the flywheel. There are some springs in there too that can weaken over time. For this reason my habit over the years is to put the car in nuetral while waiting at a light.

Is it bad to leave the clutch in at a long light?

Sitting with the clutch in at a light should not hurt the clutch master cylinder, but it does accelerate the wear on the throwout bearing. It does not matter a lot, but if you want to try to ensure that your throwout bearing lasts as long as your clutch, it is best to slip the car into neutral and release the clutch at a long light.